The Ultimate Guide to Knee Replacement in Mexico

Last fact-checked: 9 November 2019

Knee replacement surgery in Mexico can give you a new lease of life, helping you to get around again without pain and stiffness. Also known as arthroplasty, your diseased, damaged or just worn-down knee joint can be replaced with an artificial (prosthetic) one for potential thousands less than back home. 

A routine procedure for the over-65s, it can be performed on anyone over the age of 18. However, the prosthetic only has a life of between 15 and 20 years, so the younger you have it done, the more likely you will need to have it replaced again in the future.

Why Get a Knee Replacement in Mexico?

The array of tourist attractions and savings of between 50 and 70% on knee replacement surgery in Mexico are just some of the reasons international patients are choosing Mexico. Of course, you will need to make the most of your time here before surgery, as you'll need to rest up post-op before you fly (or drive) back home. 

Leading hospitals in Mexico offer care and facilities that are comparable to those in the United States and Canada. State-of-the-art technology, certificated surgeons (many with US qualifications) and adherence to international standards on safety and hygiene offer patients care as good as any they receive at home.

There are Joint Commission International-accredited hospitals throughout the country, which is one of – if not the – most prestigious international award with regard to quality and safety. Browse through our verified Mexican listing and you'll find JCI facilities in both Mexico City and Cancun.

Mexico is one of the world leaders with regard to medical tourism, and its services, including English-speaking doctors, are geared toward making their international patients feel at ease.

Patients coming from the United States and Canada can reach Mexico reasonably easily – either driving in or flying, and there are a number of locations where they can have their low-cost knee replacement surgery, especially if they are going to have a vacation too.

What Is the Procedure for Knee Replacement Surgery?

There are generally two types of knee surgery available, depending on the extent of the damage or disease to your joint. Both sides of the joint are replaced in a total knee replacement (TKR), but only one side in a half or partial knee replacement (PKR).

The procedure lasts for between 1 and 3 hours, and is typically carried out either under general anesthetic or with a spinal epidural, which numbs the body from the waist down. Prior to your procedure, your surgeon will already have measured for the artificial (prosthetic) joint, and the surgery will be a simple matter of replacing the worn ends of the bones with the prosthetic one, which may be made from either plastic or metal.

What Is the Recovery Time for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Post-surgery your knee will feel stiff and tender, and there will be swelling, bruising and discomfort. Getting up and about as soon as possible will help with the recovery process as it will aid in reducing swelling. You will likely require the use of walking sticks or a walking-frame, and a physiotherapist will give you exercises to improve mobility and strengthen the knee.

It will be three to five days before you are allowed to leave hospital after a TKR, but usually a little less for a PKR. You must keep up with your exercises and will be able to drive again between four to six weeks later – provided the mobility has returned to your knee and you can control the car properly. Over the next three months, you should take it easy and not do anything too strenuous, but it could take up to one to two years before you feel completely recovered.

How Much Can I Save on Knee Replacement Surgery in Mexico Compared to the United States and Canada?

A total knee replacement in Mexico costs around $9,000, compared to $31,0000 in the US and Canada.

For more exact prices, as well as to get a better idea of what kind of information our clinic listings contain, check out the excellent Onkort clinic, which is located in Mérida, the delightful capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán.

What now?

See below for ways to arrange an appointment, or if you’d like to know more about knee replacements in Mexico, speak to our Customer Care Team.

Sources:

Mexico, a world reference in Health Tourism. The Yucatan Times. 17 January 2018. 
https://www.theyucatantimes.com/2018/01/mexico-a-world-reference-in-health-tourism/" target="_blank

Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure. John Hopkins Medicine. Website accessed: 9 November 2019. 
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/knee-replacement-surgery-procedure" target="_blank

Knee Replacement. Mayo Clinic. Website accessed: 9 November 2019. 
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/knee-replacement/about/pac-20385276" target="_blank